Google Is Currently Experimenting With Favicons (Screenshots Inside) 

Interesting news from the search giant. Google is exploring favicon, testing colours and shading in search results.

How Favicons Appear Currently

How Favicons Are Looking While Testing

They are tweaking how favicons appear in search result snippets.

Initially noticed some time ago, the testing now includes a more widespread application.

Precisely, they are focusing on shading experiments.

This adjustment could potentially impact how users perceive and interact with search results.

 Here Is What Expert SEO Consultant Glenn Gabe Has Shared On Twitter: 

“In a test where Google is displaying an interesting version of site favicons. They are expanded to take up the full space, which can really change the design. E.g. check out the car and driver favicon in the test and then the Nike favicon (which is reversed). I think I like the test versus the current versions (for most).”

In fact, Google’s very own John Muller expressed his interest”

“I like it when the favicons look good cropped around – these experiments are interesting to see, thanks for flagging them.”

Moreover, Chandan Kumar shared the following screenshots on Twitter:

Shading And Color Depth Unveiled 

The ongoing Google tests involve the introduction of shading and additional colours to favicons displayed in search result snippets.

This could signal a departure from the traditional flat, monochromatic appearance of favicons. In fact, it will add a layer of depth and vibrancy to enhance visual appeal.

What Businesses Should Consider

For website owners and businesses, this test prompts a consideration of their official favicons.

For websites, it’s crucial to evaluate whether their existing favicons are compatible with Google’s visual enhancements.

They are ensuring that favicons remain distinctive and recognizable.

Impact On User Perception

The visual elements of search results play a crucial role in attracting user attention.

Shaded and colourful favicons could influence users to engage with results that visually stand out. in turn, we can expect a potential impact on click-through rates. For visual branding strategies to work, website owners have to monitor these developments closely.